For Release
April 1, 2003

Citadel family remembers cadet

          Cadet Kristopher Johnson, Class of 2004, died unexpectedly March 25 at his home in Long Valley, N.J. The Citadel Corps of Cadets, faculty and staff remembered him with a moment of silence on Tuesday, April 1, 2003.

          A member of Oscar Company, Cadet Johnson is remembered by friends as a fine cadet, an unforgettable friend, and a loyal brother. He was a dedicated cadre and platoon sergeant. Last year he was a human affairs corporal. An avid runner, he lifted weights, loved baseball and tutored in the English Department. He was an education major who dreamed of becoming a high school teacher.

          "We miss him and extend our condolences to his friends in Oscar Company and his family," Citadel President Maj. Gen. John S. Grinalds said Tuesday during a speech before the Corps of Cadets.

          Cadet Johnson, who died from a previously undiagnosed heart problem, was buried in his hometown in his Citadel full dress salt and pepper uniform.

          Born in Summit, N.J., Cadet Johnson is the son of Kenneth and Susan Johnson. He has an older sister. The family requests that memorials be made to The Citadel Foundation, 171 Moultrie St., Charleston, S.C. 29409, in lieu of flowers.

          A campus memorial service is planned for Thursday in Summerall Chapel.

          "Kris Johnson was proud to be a part of this school and Oscar Company," said roommate Adam Boyce. "He was a dedicated cadet. He fulfilled his duties completely and always with poise. One of the greatest things about Kris was that he dreamed of graduating from this institution not to
become some superstar alumni, rather he wanted to spend his life teaching children."

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